Things for Youth
At Sonrise Youth, we believe every student has a story worth sharing and a future worth fighting for. You’ll find a vibrant community where you can grow in your faith, build real friendships, and discover what it means to live boldly for Jesus. Come as you are, bring your questions, and take your next step with us—right here, right now.
Things for Youth @ Sonrise
Wednesday Youth Nights
Sonrise Youth Night exist to create an authentic community of students who desire to love Jesus, love others, and serve our neighbor. Everyone in high school and middle school is welcome to join in for a high-energy time of games, worship, and small group fellowship.
Sunday Youth Connect
We have Youth Connect every Sundays from 10:10-10:40am. It’s a time of fellowship and connection, with messages from some of the youth leaders. Students are encouraged to either serve or sit with their families at either the 9am or 10:45am service!
School & Lunch Clubs
We are part of faith clubs at high schools all around East County San Diego. You can find leaders from Sonrise Youth at a variety of east county San Diego school clubs every week.
But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, “How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!
— Romans 10:14-15
Hear What Students Are Saying
This is a video player from vimeo.
Sonrise Youth Directors
Dylan and Rene have over 15 years combined experience in youth ministry. Dylan serves as the Youth Pastor, as well as overseeing programming for all of Sonrise. Rene serves as the main worship leader for Sonrise, as well as working full-time for Christian Youth Theatre. They have been married for two years, and have the cutest goldendoodle named Casper.
- Boys contact dylan@sonrise.net
- Girls contact renensmith10@gmail.com
Opportunities to Serve In Sonrise Youth
Youth Service Opportunities
Students at Sonrise have real opportunities to serve and lead. Find a place to use your talents and impact our church and community.
Serve on the Sonrise Youth Team
Serve with students and help them know and follow Jesus. Whether leading small groups or supporting youth nights, there’s a place to make an impact.
Stay Connected & Support Our Youth
Follow Sonrise Youth on Insta
Stay connected with everything happening in Sonrise Youth—weekly events, series updates, and moments of fun and faith. Follow us on Instagram to be inspired and see how God is moving in the lives of students.
Support Sonrise Youth Financially
Your generosity helps students encounter Jesus, build lasting friendships, and grow in their faith. Give today to invest in the next generation and the life-changing work happening through Sonrise Youth.
We Saved A Seat For You
Church doesn’t have to be intimidating. At Sonrise, you can show up as you are, connect with people who get you, and leave knowing it was worth it. Our campus is located right where Santee, Lakeside and El Cajon come together. Join us this Sunday at 9:00 or 10:40 by visiting us at 8805 Magnolia Ave. Whenever you’re ready, we’ll be here.
Sonrise Church
Service Times:
- Sunday : 9:00 AM (1st Service)
- Sunday : 10:40 AM (2nd Service)
At Sonrise Church in Santee, Sonrise Youth exists to help students in middle school and high school grow in their faith, build strong friendships, and discover who God created them to be. Our youth ministry is a place where students from Lakeside, El Cajon, and throughout East County San Diego can come as they are and experience the life-changing love of Jesus. We combine high-energy worship, engaging teaching, and authentic small groups that help students take real steps in their walk with Christ.
We believe faith should be real, relevant, and rooted in truth. That’s why every Sonrise Youth gathering is designed to inspire students to live out their faith at school, at home, and in the community. Whether it’s a Wednesday night service, a weekend retreat, or serving together on a mission trip, students find a safe space to ask questions, grow spiritually, and have fun while doing it. Our goal is to equip the next generation to lead with purpose, live with conviction, and follow Jesus with their whole hearts.
If you’re searching for a Christian youth program in Santee, a church youth group near Lakeside, or student ministry in El Cajon, you’ll find it here at Sonrise Church. We’re passionate about helping students encounter Jesus in a way that’s real, relational, and relevant to their everyday lives. Join us this week and see why families all across East County San Diego trust Sonrise as the place where their students can belong, believe, and become all God has called them to be.